< Back ActionCOACH -Business Coach Trevor Clark is a seasoned business coach with a strong background in marketing, sales, and leadership. ATrevor Clark is a seasoned business coach with a strong background in marketing, sales, and leadership. After completing his studies in Switzerland and earning diplomas in marketing and business management in South Africa, he began his career at ABSA in 1993. He went on to hold key roles in the engineering sector and at Babcock, where he led national initiatives. ActionCOACH -Business Coach The BLOG Read all about it READ MORE

< Back Aneshree Naicker Chief Executive Officer of Stallion Towlines, Authentic Scrap Metals and Nutech Security Aneshree Naicker is the chief executive officer of three businesses. These companies Stallion Towlines, Authentic Scrap Metals, and Nutech Security, stand as pillars of success among industries predominantly led by men. Stallion Towlines, she explains, was founded by her late husband. “We met in 2010, married in 2012, thereafter I played a vital role in developing the business with an expanding fleet. Armed with my BCom degree I focused on finance and management, while he managed the hustle and grind on the road.” Her second venture, Authentic Scrap Metals, was founded in 2012. “That’s solely my own enterprise,” Aneshree notes with pride. The third, Nutech Security, is her current priority. “It is 100% woman-owned, black economic empowerment level one, and that is where my attention is directed now. Stallion and Authentic have made considerable progress.” Aneshree’s leadership journey is unique. “I’ve never been employed. I’ve never earned a salary. I was alwayson the opposite side of the table, paying salaries. I’m not sure how good I am at following instructions, but I am skilled at delegating,” she says with a hint of humour. RESILIENCE THROUGH TRAGEDY Her professional milestones, however, are only one part of her narrative as life has tested Aneshree harshly.“When I was 27, I lost my dad. When I was 28, I lost my grandfather. Sadly, I lost my husband to Covid in 2021.The last four years have been really challenging because it was my sole responsibility to pick up the pieces and keep the businesses afloat.” However, says Aneshree, “I have been blessed with three daughters, my twins who are 13 and my youngest who is 12”. Despite immense hardship, Aneshree gives gratitude and dues to her team. “I have an excellent management team across all three businesses. I liaise directly with them,” she explained. Recalling the darkest period of her life, Aneshree says, “It was quite daunting because I was in hospital with my husband for 33 days. He had asthma, an underlying condition, and was eventually placed on a ventilator. Unfortunately, he did not survive. At first, I just went into operation mode, arranging the memorial service, doing the tributes, and the rituals. Then I looked at my three little kids, my twins were nine and my youngest was eight and realised my whole world had fallen apart.” Her involvement in the businesses became both a responsibility and a form of healing. Aneshree expanded, “Thankfully, I was already involved in all three businesses, so I was able to keep the reins tight to ensure their smooth operations.” The blows did not stop there. “Two years after my husband passed on I lost my mum. She was 74 and suffered multiple illnesses. She lived with me, and I took care of her.” Reflecting deeply, Aneshree says, “The strongest person I knew, my role model, was definitely my mum. She was quite entrepreneurial, loving, giving, and caring. She also lost my dad when she was relatively young and raised three children on her own. She was my tower of strength when I lost my husband. Losing her was difficult, but because of her age and illness, it was easier to accept. Losing my soulmate was devastating.” A LEADER BEYOND THE OFFICE Aneshree is not a CEO who leads from behind a desk. “I am a people’s person. You will see me out in operations, jumping into vehicles, driving around and meeting clients. It is not all about holding the title. My managerial skills are more advanced than my financial ones. I enjoy the day-to-day operations.” Stallion Towlines, she explains is about 30 years old now. “We’re affiliated with all the insurance companies and South African Police Services, and we’ve earned respect in the industry.” Authentic Scrap Metals, too, has grown successfully. “It’s reached its climax,” Aneshree says proudly. “Most of my time now is directed to Nutech Security.” Her security business reflects her competitive spirit. “Because it is male-dominated, it is challenging but that is more reason to compete harder. We focus on home security, guarding, corporate and commercial protection, VIP escorting, alarms, monitoring, and cameras. We have even opened a branch in Johannesburg.” Aneshree’s advice to other women in business is both grounded and empowering. “You need to be headstrong and stay focused. You’ll have difficult days, especially after tragedy. It’s been four years since I lost my husband, but with perseverance I’m slowly climbing back up the ladder. It’s motivating; you become proud of your success and realise you’ve achieved heights you didn’t think possible.” She is deeply aware of her roles as mother and mentor. Aneshree said, “I have three little girls, so I need to be a role model for them. If I can do it after all that I’ve encountered, any woman can.” Aneshree recently turned 45 but shows no signs of slowing down. “I was hoping to retire, but I’ve given myself another five years. You work hard, but you should also play hard. I double up as mom and dad, so spending quality time with my daughters, taking them on holidays, is just as important. It’s not enough to make money; you must also enhance the quality of your life.” Her entrepreneurial reality, however, leaves little room for rest. “There is no real balance when you are an entrepreneur. Towing is 24 hours. Security is 24 hours. Authentic is the only one that opens at seven and closes at five. The phones ring at any hour; two, three, five in the morning. You must be available. Even on holiday, you are still working.” Despite the endless demands, Aneshree remains grateful and inspired. “I am quite overwhelmed at times but proud of all my achievements. Hopefully, my story inspires younger women to work harder, stay focused, and realise that life is not just about family and caretaking. You have your own purpose, and there is a portion of life that belongs solely to you.” With characteristic resolve, Aneshree ends with conviction: “It’s difficult but certainly doable.” Previous Next

< Back Susan Abro Attorney and Sole Proprietor, Susan Abro Attorney Susan Abro is a seasoned attorney with a career spanning over 35 years. In 1995, she founded her own legal practice, Susan Abro Attorney, specialising in family law. Reflecting on the evolution of her field, Susan said, “It’s been a very interesting progression. For example, we only joined the Hague Convention on the Abduction of Children in 1994. Family law changes quickly because of issues such as surrogacy and same-sex marriage. As life and science change, so family law has to change.” Her work covers a range of matters. “Basically, I deal with issues from cradle to grave,” she said. “I do a lot of divorce work, but that includes financial issues and children, that’s my passion – looking after children. I’ve also been involved in protecting women from domestic violence and assisting them to protect themselves.” Susan’s leadership has earned her international recognition as a Fellow of the International Academy of Family Lawyers (IAFL) and a former committee member of the International Bar Association (IBA). FINDING HER PATH Susan grew up on a farm, where she learned to respect everyone. She commented, “These are values that have stayed with me my whole life.” When asked how she chose family law, she smiled. “It sort of chose me.” She began her career at a large Durban firm, completing her articles in an all-male environment. “It was a wonderful experience because I had incredible training, but they were merging with another firm that didn’t want any women.” After completing her articles, she joined Woodhead, Bigby and Irving, one of Durban’s top firms. “I became a partner in my first year there,” she recalled. “But I’m very independent and realised I wouldn’t fit into the huge corporate world.” Five years later she opened her own practice. “I left on very good terms,” she said. “Then I got involved with the Advice Desk for Abused Women and the rest flowed from there.” Her work with the Open Door Crisis Centre, KZN Women in Business, the Democratic Alliance Women’s Network (DAWN), Afrika Tikkun and the Robin Hood Foundation reflects her deep belief in promoting gender equality and supporting vulnerable women and children. Running her own practice proved liberating. “I’m the one who sets my own fee targets,” she said. “I can do pro bono work whenever I want to. You set your own rules.” Her ambitions have evolved. “My biggest dream changes all the time,” she admitted. “I started off wanting to be a partner in a big practice. Then I opened my own firm. Thirty years later, I’m still here. My reality is to help people. That’s what I’m about.” Throughout her career, Susan has been inspired by remarkable women. “Judge Navi Pillay was one of my great inspirations,” she said. “She became one of the first judges of the International Criminal Court and later head of the UN Human Rights Council. I travelled with her to Germany for the launch of the Human Rights Prosecutor School.” She also mentioned mentors such as the late Professor Anshu Padayachee, Pat Moodley from the Department of Justice, current Judge President Toba and businesswoman Cindy Norcott. IMPACT AND ACHIEVEMENTS Over the years, Susan has made significant contributions professionally and within her community. She has served as president of the Jewish community, co-chairperson of the Law Society of South Africa, and first woman vice president of the KwaZulu-Natal Law Society. Her leadership extends beyond law. She has been a council member of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry and chair of the Durban Chapter of the Business Women’s Association of South Africa (BWASA), championing women’s advancement in business and leadership. Among her proudest achievements is serving as an acting judge of the High Court in Durban. “It gives you the view from the other side of the bench,” she said, “but I like working with people, so it wasn’t something I wanted to do permanently. Her firm was named South African Boutique Family Law Firm of the Year (2017) by Corporate Global International Awards, and she was honoured as Professional Businesswoman of the Year by BWASA. In 2024, she was a finalist in the Absa Jewish Achiever Awards, recognition that highlights her influence and integrity within both professional and community spheres. She has also received recognition from her alma mater, St Anne’s.A significant challenge came in 2009 when she was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative eye disease. “I only have peripheral vision now,” she said. “I stopped driving in 2016. Thank goodness for Uber and my wonderful staff.” Susan approaches her condition with courage and humour. “Losing your vision is difficult, but it’s something you can overcome,” she said. “I’m lucky because I have my own business. In a big corporate, you might not find the same understanding.”Susan’s advice to young professionals is heartfelt. “If your passion is law, find what your passion is within law. Don’t be put in a box. Find mentors and ask them for help – you’d be surprised how many people are happy to give advice. And never burn your bridges.” She also encourages women to network. “Find women’s organisations. Women network differently from men – with empathy and a desire to help each other.” LOOKING AHEAD Susan’s family has a legacy of long and fulfilling lives. “My mother and grandmother both worked until they were 86,” she laughed. “I can tell you right now, I’m not going to work till I’m 86.” Retirement, however, is not imminent. “I love what I’m doing, but I do want to travel more and do more NGO work. My goal is to see a few clients a month and spend the rest of my time helping others.” To maintain balance, Susan prioritises health and relationships. “People tell you to manage your stress – good luck with that,” she joked. “I have a personal trainer who comes to my office, and I exercise with my staff. Friends are the family you choose, and my family is very close-knit.” She is also a member of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, an international gastronomic society. “It’s an organisation for the enjoyment of the table,” she said. “We do a lot of good eating and drinking. I’ve always had an interest in wine – that’s my idea of fun.” Previous Next

< Back Emily Elliot Chief Executive Officer, Imperial Armour Emily Elliott is chief executive officer of Imperial Armour, a globally recognised manufacturer of high-performance body armour serving both local and international markets. This year marks the company’s twenty-fifth anniversary, a milestone that reflects dedication and resilience. At just twenty-nine years old, Emily’s journey has been one intertwined with family legacy and personal conviction. “When I was about seven years old, I would ask my mum, whose life did you save today? she recalls with a smile. “That’s where my love for the business and the industry began.”The family’s roots in defence stretch even further back, as Emily explains: “Defence is in my blood. It’s carried through from my grandfather, through to my mum, to me. It has always been there.” Although Emily officially joined the company a decade ago, her path to leadership was carefully considered. After completing schooling, she pursued a business diploma and experimented with several ventures of her own, including a clothing line for mothers and daughters. “It’s quite ironic since I have two boys now,” she laughs. Her time working and travelling in Asia gave her valuable perspective, but she always knew where her heart lay. “I ended up coming back to Imperial Armour, realising that this is where I could make a difference.” The leadership transition has been, in her words, “a very steady process over the past five years,” culminating in her formal appointment as CEO. “Just seeing the documents finalised felt like the completion of something that had been in motion for a long time.” CULTURE, QUALITY AND INNOVATION As CEO, Emily has placed company culture at the forefront of her vision. “We focus on teamwork and collaboration. The team’s synergy is one hundred percent there. That commitment to people-first leadership has already yielded tangible results. “The other day, I was sitting with staff members from different departments, and they each said to me, ‘I love working here. I love my job, and I love what I’m doing.’ For me, that made me realise that I am successfully impacting the company.” Under Emily’s guidance, Imperial Armour continues to thrive under a quality assurance framework. “I live and breathe ISO,” she says, referring to the international quality management standard. “It’s a path that we’ve taken to make sure that we are successful. We measure, we set goals, and we work towards them.” This approach has also driven technical innovation. Emily highlights a major development in product design that has improved functionality and reduced material waste. “For our most popular product line, we’ve managed to create minimal wastage, which has been amazing,” she explains. The Contour 25 line is not only sustainable but also ergonomically advanced. “When a reaction officer wears a vest, they need complete manoeuvrability. The Contour 25 allows that. You can hold your firearm with no restriction, sit in a vehicle comfortably, and have full protection. It’s been incredible, and our key accounts have already adopted this style.” EMPOWERING WOMEN Emily’s sense of social responsibility has also found expression in a new initiative, the ‘Yes, You! Campaign’. “It’s directed at women, particularly from lower-income communities,” she explains. “Many of these women want to start their careers but may lack confidence, communication skills or even knowledge of how to prepare a CV. We train them, we help them grow their confidence, learn how to interview and present themselves.” Initially rolled out within the company, the campaign will soon expand to reach the surrounding community. Emily says warmly, “My biggest dream has always been to be an entrepreneur who makes a difference. If I’m not making a difference, I’m not succeeding. In an industry dominated by men, Imperial Armour has always been 100% female-owned, and 96% percent of the staff are women. Emily notes with pride, “And while the industry may have traditionally been perceived as a ‘man’s world’ – consider the impact when women can: Design; Craft; Negotiate and Sell the highest quality of Body Armour.” Emily has also been guided by her late father’s words: “He always told me to learn from everyone who gives advice. Whether it’s with a pinch of salt or not, I always do my best to learn. I think it’s important to share that lesson with young women.” She is passionate about seeing more women step into leadership roles within the defence industry. “I want young women to know they can be here, that they can succeed. Confidence is something you must believe in your head first. You may not have it all, but you can go for it, and the confidence comes.” CLEAR AMBITIONS Looking ahead, Emily’s ambitions for Imperial Armour are clear. “I would like the brand’s market reach to grow,” she says. “We are already in seventy-eight countries but expanding on that is a huge goal for me. We need to protect as many people as we can.” She adds that Imperial Armour’s mission goes beyond production. “We manufacture for the wearer, for their families. Our slogan is: ‘When you go in, we go in with you’. We may not physically accompany the wearers into dangerous environments, but through our garments, we are right there with them. I love that because it is truly Imperial Armour.” With two young sons and a supportive husband, Emily understands the challenges of balance. “I find balance through energising myself for work and energising myself from work for life,” she explains. “I make sure that my cup is filled with family and friends, and that brings me my best self for work and vice versa for home. I’m grateful for both. Previous Next